'It was uncharacteristic from her' - Silver Ferns unfazed by Maria Tutaia's off performance against England

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NZN

The targeting of Maria Tutaia has proven hugely influential for England in wrapping up a 49-46 second Test win over the Silver Ferns in Napier.

Maria Tutaia lines up a shot against South Africa.

Source: Photosport

After winning the first Taini Jamison Trophy Test 62-65 in Wellington last week, New Zealand faltered at Pettigrew Green Arena on Sunday as England levelled the series 1-1 going into Wednesday's decider in Hamilton.

The vastly experienced Tutaia, who has amassed 110 caps for New Zealand since her 2005 debut, was shut down by an outstanding effort from England defenders Ama Agbeze and Geva Mentor.

The 30-year-old shooter was on court for only a tick over two quarters, managing to convert just eight of her 16 attempts before she was replaced by Te Paea Selby-Rickit early in the third stanza.

It was a stark contrast to Tutaia's first Test showing three days earlier, where she was lethal from long range in sinking 31 from 37.